XVII.
A SLIGHT MISTAKE.
I don't ask you for more than a guinea,' said Mrs. Hilary, with a parade of forbearance.
'It would be the same,' I replied politely, 'if you asked me for a thousand'; with which I handed her half-a-crown. She held it in her open hand, regarding it scornfully.
'Yes,' I continued, taking a seat, 'I feel that pecuniary gifts'
'Half-a-crown!'
'Are a poor substitute for personal service. May not I accompany you to the ceremony?'
'I daresay you spent as much as this on wine with your lunch!'
'I was in a mad mood to-day,' I answered apologetically. 'What are they taught at the school?'
'Above all, to be good girls,' said Mrs. Hilary earnestly. 'What are you sneering at, Mr. Carter?'
'Nothing,' said I hastily; and I added with a sigh, 'I suppose it's all right.'
'I should like,' said Mrs. Hilary meditatively,
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